At least 10 people have died and dozens remain missing as heavy monsoon rains triggered flash floods across Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). The disaster has caused widespread destruction and prompted an urgent response from both local and national authorities.

According to officials, Babusar Valley remains the most severely affected area. So far, the valley has reported seven deaths, with 15 people still missing. Additionally, two deaths occurred in Astore district, and one in Thore Valley (Diamer). Rescuers also recovered the body of an unidentified woman from the Indus River in Chilas, believed to be one of the missing tourists.

Rescue teams, including the Pakistan Army, district administration, and volunteers, continue to search affected areas. Most tourists trapped in Fairy Meadows have been safely evacuated. Authorities have now reopened the Silk Road for all traffic, easing connectivity to remote areas.

However, the scale of damage is overwhelming. Officials report that over 500 structures, including homes, bridges, and roads, have been destroyed or severely damaged. Landslides have worsened the situation, cutting off entire communities.

Faizullah Faraq, spokesperson for the GB government, stated the total financial loss exceeds Rs20 billion. He stressed that the province “runs on grants and aid” and cannot manage the recovery alone. Therefore, federal assistance is essential.

Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan formally requested Rs7 billion in emergency funds. He confirmed that floods have impacted seven districts, with Diamer suffering the worst. So far, 300 homes were destroyed, 200 were partially damaged, and 40 water channels across 30 villages were swept away.

Despite the urgent need, GB has only Rs1 billion reserved for emergencies. Additionally, the provincial government carries Rs3 billion in liabilities from previous disasters.

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